THE HEADTEACHER of a secondary school based in Stroud has left suddenly. 

Glen Balmer, who was headteacher at Marling School, recently decided to leave his post after being there for seven years.

Marling School is part of the Cotswold Beacon Academy Trust. 

The Trust has released a statement to the SNJ about the news. 

A spokesperson for the Trust said: "Our school community was recently informed that Glen Balmer has decided to leave his post as headteacher of Marling School and, as an Academy Trust, we are now organising a recruitment process to find a new headteacher.

"Until Christmas, Kim Wilson, chief executive officer will be supporting the school leadership team who will welcome an interim headteacher, until a new headteacher is in post, and a permanent second deputy headteacher in January 2024.

"We are excited to welcome new leaders to support in the development of the school and its students."

In a letter sent to parents and carers and seen by the SNJ, Mr Balmer said: “It has been a privilege to work at Marling School for the last seven years but after much reflection I have decided it is time to move on.

“I am proud of our popular, vibrant and inclusive school – with exam results this summer that rank alongside the best this school has achieved.

“I will miss Marling’s students and staff immensely and wish them, and the school, the very best for the future.”

A spokesperson for the Trust added in the letter: “I am sure you will join me in thanking Glen for all his work at Marling and wish him all the best for the future, as well as supporting the leadership changes we have made to ensure Marling School continues to go from strength to strength.”

Marling School, located in Cainscross Road, received an Outstanding grade in its last Ofsted result, in 2013.